Frequently Asked Questions

Project timelines vary depending on the size of your home, the services being performed, and the condition of your existing flooring.

As a general guideline:

• Sanding and refinishing projects typically take 3–6 days.
• New hardwood floor installations vary depending on square footage and project complexity.
• Repairs and restoration projects are scheduled based on the amount of work required.

We'll provide a detailed project timeline before work begins so you'll know exactly what to expect.

Preparing your home helps ensure your project runs efficiently.

Before work begins, we typically recommend:

• Removing furniture from affected rooms
• Taking down curtains and blinds when appropriate
• Removing fragile décor and valuables
• Providing clear access to work areas
• Making arrangements for children and pets to avoid active work zones

Depending on the scope of your project, we may also be able to assist with furniture moving. We'll discuss preparation requirements during your consultation.

Both finishing systems provide excellent protection, but each offers unique advantages.

Water-Based Finishes

Water-based finishes dry quickly, produce less odor during application, and maintain the natural appearance of lighter hardwood species. They're an excellent choice for homeowners who prefer a clean, contemporary look and want to return to normal use sooner.

Oil-Based Polyurethane

Oil-based polyurethane offers a warm, rich appearance that enhances the natural depth of many hardwood species. It's especially popular in traditional and historic homes because of its classic amber tone and excellent durability.

Rubio Monocoat

Rubio Monocoat is a plant-based hardwax oil finish that penetrates the wood rather than creating a surface film. It provides a beautiful matte appearance, allows for spot repairs without refinishing the entire floor, and appeals to homeowners seeking a natural aesthetic. Because it requires specialized maintenance, we'll help determine whether it's the right fit for your lifestyle.

During your consultation, we'll explain the advantages of each finish and help you choose the option that best suits your home and expectations.

Yes. Reclaimed hardwood is one of our specialties.

Abeln Floor Systems actively works with reclaimed wood for repairs, restorations, custom flooring projects, and historic home renovations. We also source reclaimed materials and manufacture custom hardwood flooring when original products are no longer available.

This expertise allows us to complete projects that many flooring companies simply cannot, particularly in older homes where preserving architectural character is a priority.

Drying and curing times depend on the finish you choose.

General guidelines include:

• Water-based finishes: Light foot traffic in approximately 3 hours.
• Oil-based polyurethane: Usually overnight.
• Rubio Monocoat: Approximately 36 hours before light foot traffic.

Furniture should remain off newly finished floors until the finish has adequately cured. We'll provide detailed care instructions specific to the products used for your project.

Hardwood is a natural material that responds to changes in humidity throughout the year.

During humid months, boards expand slightly. During the dry winter season, they naturally contract, which may create small gaps between boards. This seasonal movement is normal and does not typically indicate a problem with the flooring.

Maintaining indoor humidity levels between 45% and 55% can help minimize seasonal movement and protect your hardwood floors over time.

Not always.

Many floor fillers become brittle over time and may crack as hardwood naturally expands and contracts with seasonal humidity changes. In many situations, allowing hardwood to move naturally provides a better long-term appearance than filling every small seasonal gap.

If you're concerned about larger openings or structural movement, we'll evaluate your flooring and recommend the most appropriate solution.

Proper acclimation is one of the most important steps in a successful installation.

Before installation begins, we measure the moisture content of both the hardwood flooring and the subfloor to ensure they're properly balanced with the home's environment. This helps reduce the risk of excessive expansion, contraction, or movement after installation.

Taking the time to prepare materials correctly contributes to a longer-lasting, more stable hardwood floor.

Routine maintenance helps protect both the beauty and longevity of your investment.

We recommend:

• Sweeping or vacuuming regularly using a hardwood-safe attachment
• Cleaning spills promptly
• Using felt pads beneath furniture
• Avoiding steam mops and harsh chemical cleaners
• Maintaining consistent indoor humidity levels
• Scheduling professional maintenance recoating before the finish wears through

With proper care, hardwood flooring can remain beautiful for generations.

In many cases, yes.

Localized water damage, scratched boards, pet damage, loose planks, and other common issues can often be repaired without replacing the entire floor. Our experienced craftsmen evaluate every project individually and recommend the most practical, cost-effective solution.

Whenever possible, we focus on preserving existing hardwood rather than replacing it.

Absolutely.

Historic hardwood restoration is one of the services that sets Abeln Floor Systems apart. We specialize in preserving original flooring, sourcing reclaimed hardwood, matching discontinued materials, and custom milling replacement boards for older homes throughout the St. Louis area.

Our goal is always to maintain the architectural character and craftsmanship that make historic homes unique.

Yes.

We provide complimentary consultations for homeowners considering hardwood flooring installation, repairs, refinishing, restoration, reclaimed hardwood, custom milling, and other flooring services.

During your consultation, we'll evaluate your flooring, discuss your goals, explain available options, and provide a detailed estimate with no pressure or obligation.